1. How long can I stay in the US in an L-1A visa?

An L-1A visa is a temporary work visa that allows a foreign national to stay in the US for up to seven years. The length of stay is determined by the employer, and extensions can be granted in one-year intervals if necessary.

2. What are the eligibility criteria for an L-1A visa?

To be eligible for an L-1A visa, the applicant must be a manager or executive of a business that operates in both the US and a foreign country, and have been working for the organization abroad for at least 1 year in the last 3 years. The applicant must also be coming to the US to work in either a managerial or executive capacity.

3. What evidence do I need to provide to prove my managerial or executive status?

Evidence may include a copy of your job description, job title, a letter from your employer confirming your position, previous performance reviews, and/or documents showing your qualifications and experience.

4. How long does it take to get an L-1A visa approved?

The processing time for an L-1A visa can vary depending on the individual case and the specific circumstances involved. Generally speaking, the processing time for an L-1A visa can take anywhere from several days to several months, depending on the processing workload of the US consulate or embassy where the application is filed.

5. Do I need to obtain a visa before I travel to the US?

Yes, most people will need to obtain a visa before traveling to the US. However, there are some exceptions for certain visa-exempt travelers. It is important to check with the US embassy or consulate prior to travel to determine what visa requirements may apply.

6. Will I have to pay taxes on my income as an L-1A visa holder?

Yes, you will be liable to pay taxes on your income as an L-1A visa holder. You should contact a qualified tax adviser or accountant for advice on your specific tax situation.

7. Am I allowed to bring my family with me on an L-1A visa?

Yes, your family is allowed to come with you on an L-1A visa. Your spouse and any unmarried children under 21 can come with you on an L-2 visa, which allows them to stay in the US with you and work. However, they must apply for the L-2 visa separately.

8. What is the difference between an L-1A and an L-2 visa?

An L-1A visa is for intracompany transferees who have been employed abroad for one continuous year in the last three years and are coming to the US to perform executive or managerial roles with the same or affiliated company. An L-2 visa is for the family members of an L-1A visa holder, such as a spouse or dependent child.

9. Can I apply for a green card while on an L-1A visa?

Yes, you can apply for a green card while on an L-1A visa. It is important to note that you will need to meet all the requirements and criteria for obtaining a green card, even when you are on an L-1A visa. In addition, you must also be in valid L-1A status at the time of filing the green card application.

10. Can I take a job with a different employer while on an L-1A visa?

Yes, you can take a job with a different employer while on an L-1A visa, but you will need to transfer your visa to the new employer. In order to do this, the new employer must file an I-129 petition on your behalf. The petition must be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before you can begin working for the new employer.

11. Can I open my own business while on an L-1A visa?

Yes, you may open your own business while on an L-1A visa. You will need to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to work in the United States legally.

12. Can I apply for US citizenship while on an L-1A visa?

Yes, you can apply for U.S. citizenship while on an L-1A visa. However, it is important to note that you must meet certain eligibility requirements and may need to provide additional documentation to prove your eligibility to become a U.S. citizen. Additionally, it is important to understand that the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship can take several years and it is not guaranteed.

13. Is there a maximum amount of time that I can stay in the US with an L-1A visa?

Yes, you can stay in the US with an L-1A visa for a maximum of 7 years. Those 7 years are divided into two sections: five years of “regular” L-1A status and two years of “extended” L-1A status. After the seven year period, the beneficiary must remain outside the US for at least one year before applying for another L-1 visa.

14. How do I renew my L-1A visa when it expires?

When your L-1A visa expires, you will need to file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, and form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. You must submit both forms to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the necessary supporting documents, including the petition fee and biometric fee.

15. Do I need to get a work permit in order to work as an L-1A visa holder in the US?

Yes, you will need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in order to legally work in the US as an L-1A visa holder.

16. What documents do I need to travel outside of the US while on an L-1A visa?

To travel outside of the US while on an L-1A visa, you will need to have your valid passport, a valid L-1A visa, and a valid I-797 approval notice. Additionally, if you are traveling to certain countries, you may require additional documents such as a visa for that specific country.

17. How often can I travel outside of the US while on an L-1A visa?

The L-1A visa allows the holder to travel outside of the US for business purposes as often as necessary. However, you may need to renew your visa each time you re-enter the US.

18. Do I need to register with my local police department while on an L-1A visa?

No, you do not need to register with your local police department while on an L-1A visa. However, you may need to register with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if you plan to stay in the US beyond the terms of your visa.

19. Are there any restrictions on where I can live or work in the US while on an L-1A visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on where you can live and work while on an L-1A visa. You must work for the company that petitioned you, in a position within the same managerial or executive role as the one you occupied abroad. Additionally, you must be employed at the petitioning company’s US branch or affiliate. Any changes to your employment or residence must be approved by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

20. Are there any additional fees associated with obtaining or renewing an L-1A visa?

Yes. You may be required to pay the following fees: filing and biometrics fees, attorney fees, and premium processing fees. You may need to pay for a medical examination if you plan on traveling with dependents. Additionally, if you are applying from outside of the United States, you may need to pay an additional visa application fee.